Network Security Engineer

Company: xAI
Location: Palo Alto
Posted on: February 13, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Job Description About xAI xAI's mission is to create AI systems that can accurately understand the universe and aid humanity in its pursuit of knowledge. Our team is small, highly motivated, and focused on engineering excellence. This organization is for individuals who appreciate challenging themselves and thrive on curiosity. We operate with a flat organizational structure. All employees are expected to be hands-on and to contribute directly to the company's mission. Leadership is given to those who show initiative and consistently deliver excellence. Work ethic and strong prioritization skills are important. All employees are expected to have strong communication skills. They should be able to concisely and accurately share knowledge with their teammates. About the Role We are seeking a seasoned Senior Network Security Engineer to join our dynamic security team. The ideal candidate will possess deep expertise in network security technologies, focusing on switching and routing systems within cloud-native and AI-focused infrastructure. You will thrive in a fast-paced, challenging environment, demonstrating adaptability, excellent multitasking skills, and the drive to tackle complex security issues independently while ensuring robust protection for our innovative technologies. Key Responsibilities: Serve as a subject matter expert in network security, particularly firewalls, VPNs, IDS/IPS, routing protocols (e.g., BGP, OSPF), and switching technologies. Manage and update firewall configurations across our enterprise network to align with operational and security needs. Deploy new firewalls, switches, routers, and network security devices in response to evolving threats and demands. Develop and propose innovative network security solutions to address operational challenges in routing and switching environments. Enhance security processes through thorough documentation and change management. Act as the primary resolver for complex network security issues, including escalation support. Ensure network security systems, switches, and routers are up-to-date with patches, firmware, and maintenance. Monitor and respond to security events in cloud environments (e.g., AWS, GCP, Azure, Datacenter), with emphasis on network traffic analysis. Ideal Experience: Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Information Systems, or a related field. 4 years of experience in network security engineering, with hands-on focus on switching and routing. Strong understanding of network security principles, protocols (e.g., TCP/IP, VLANs, ACLs), and best practices for secure routing and switching. Proficiency in at least one major cloud platform (AWS, GCP, or Azure) and its network security services (e.g., VPCs, Security Groups). Experience with network analysis tools such as Wireshark, tcpdump; and vendors including Cisco, Juniper, Palo Alto Networks. Familiarity with scripting languages (e.g., Python, Bash) for automation of network security tasks. Preferred Qualifications: Relevant network-specific certifications (e.g., CCNP Security, CCIE Security, JNCIP-SEC, PCNSE). Experience in multi-cloud environments and Infrastructure as Code tools like Terraform for network provisioning. Knowledge of DevSecOps practices tailored to network security integration. Bonus Skills: Experience building custom tools or integrations for enhancing network security operations. Interest in leveraging AI for network threat detection and automation. Contributions to open-source projects in network security or related tools. Annual Salary Range $180,000 - $440,000 USD Benefits Base salary is just one part of our total rewards package at xAI, which also includes equity, comprehensive medical, vision, and dental coverage, access to a 401(k) retirement plan, short & long-term disability insurance, life insurance, and various other discounts and perks. xAI is an equal opportunity employer. For details on data processing, view our Recruitment Privacy Notice.

Keywords: xAI, Santa Clara , Network Security Engineer, IT / Software / Systems , Palo Alto, California